2020 has been a year of tragedies, how much ever we try to ignore the fact and put on a brave face. We’ve not seen crises like these, global in nature, for many decades. Every country, every government was forced to take drastic measures such as calling a state of emergency, shutting borders, regional lockdowns, mandatory social distancing, work-from-home orders, and so on. All this with the knowledge that the economy will be shattered. But, desperate times need desperate measures, right?
Staying at home, practicing social distancing, maintaining hygiene, having a healthy diet, are some of the new practices that have become the “new norm.” We are adjusting to this, although poorly and desperately, because our battle is with an invisible and unknown enemy. And our life is that of hope and prayer.
What can the government do after a point? What can we do after that point?
The government can only hold a lockdown for a limited period of time and will be forced to end the lockdown to bring the economy back on track while taking care of its people. And it could be in phases and/or strategic exits. It is doing its job by continually educating us on the dangers of COVID-19 and what could its potential consequences be. It has also opened multiple avenues for us to be aware and take a calculated approach to life. Can this happen forever?
Certainly not! The future of us is in our own hands. The future of our family also lies in our actions. As long as there is no cure or vaccine, the invisible danger is lurking around us. That is why it is extremely crucial to keep following the basics even after the lockdown. We must all let sanity prevail and change our lifestyle respectfully. We’ve heard many things but what can we do over and above the basics?
- Be conscious of people around you.
- Be conscious of what you eat. Have a healthy diet.
- Be conscious of your health. Do not ignore any signs of ill-health or symptoms.
- Be conscious about hygiene at home.
- Be conscious of your well-being. It is never too late to pick up an exercise routine.
- Be conscious of the fact that there is still no cure for Coronavirus.
In a nutshell, the post-lockdown phase is as good as the lockdown phase. Keep practicing all that you have been practicing. Because after a point, we are responsible for ourselves. Finally, let us not overwhelm our healthcare professionals – because they, too, are humans!
Stay home. Stay safe. Stay healthy.